Corangamite Shire is having a close look at how Simpson and Timboon can act as future key service centres to the Great Ocean Road and surrounding hinterland.
Members of the public are invited to contribute or have their say on some of the ideas and opportunities outlined in an Issues and Opportunities Paper.
The project looks at capitalising on opportunities presented by the growing number of visitors, as well as:
- improving residential and rural land supply, housing and accommodation for workers, and the long-term rental market;
- supporting more investment in visitor product, experience and infrastructure;
- looking at issues such as roads, urban design, neighbourhood character, car parking, community facilities, cultural heritage and development infrastructure.
Mayor Neil Trotter said that visitation to the region was forecast to grow four percent annually to reach 8.6 million visitors by 2026-27.
“Both Timboon and Simpson are ideally located to service visitors to the area and overflow from the Great Ocean Road,” Cr Trotter said.
“Timboon has become a foodie destination in itself with the food trail leading to more overnight stays.”
However, residential land and housing, long term rentals and accommodation were in short supply in both townships.
Mayor Trotter said lack of housing or rental availability was beginning to impact communities in the south of the Shire.
“There are some major projects on the horizon for both areas,” he said.
“This includes the extension of the rail trail to Port Campbell, Glenample Visitor Experience Centre, Twelve Apostles Hot Springs and Resort, and potential future development of the former Kraft factory site in Simpson.
“This project looks at ways Council can supply worker accommodation, more rural lifestyle properties, and free up larger housing for the family market,” he said.
Mayor Trotter encouraged Simpson and Timboon residents to look at the Issues and Opportunities Paper online at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Simpson-and-Timboon, or in hardcopy at Corangamite Shire offices in Camperdown, Timboon Library and Simpson Post Office.
“Community feedback will inform the final report for the project,” he said.
Residents can complete an online survey at www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Simpson-and-Timboon or attend one of the public drop-in sessions any time between
2:30 pm and 7:30 pm at the Simpson Bowls Club on Thursday 5 March or Timboon Senior Citizens Centre on Friday 6 March.
Submissions close Friday 13 March.
